Integrated spacing sensor for joined parts and related methods
OwnerAlexandre N. Terentievinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A system and apparatus are provided for use in determining a spacing of a gap between a first flange and a second flange connected by at least one bolt using an integrated sensor. The sensor may include a plurality of electric coils for generating an AC magnetic field for causing a magnetic material to produce a dynamic mechanical response as a result of a change in the spacing of the first and second flanges. A holder for the sensor may be provided, and may be adapted for positioning between the joined parts or the associated flanges, and further may be adapted to attach to a bolt connecting the parts. Related methods are also disclosed, including for estimating a retained load on a gasket or seal associated with the first and second flanges.
Claims30
An apparatus for sensing a condition of a joint, comprising:
- a first flange;
- a second flange;
- at least one bolt connecting the first flange to the second flange;
- a gasket located between the first flange and the second flange;
- and
- a sensor integrated into the first flange, the second flange, or the bolt, the sensor adapted to determine a change in a spacing of a gap between the first flange and the second flange.
An apparatus for sensing a condition of a joint formed by a first flange and a second flange having a gap therebetween, at least one bolt connecting the first flange to the second flange, and a gasket located between the first flange and the second flange, comprising:
- a sensor adapted to be integrated into the first flange, the second flange, or the at least one bolt, the sensor adapted to determine a change in a spacing of the gap.
A method for assessing a condition of a joint between a first flange and a second flange, comprising:
- determining a change in a spacing of a gap between the first flange and second flange using a sensor integrated into the first flange or the second flange.
A method of determining a condition of a gasket between a first flange and a second flange connected by at least one bolt, comprising:
- measuring a change in a spacing of a gap between the first flange and second flange using a sensor integrated into the first or second flange;
- and
- based on the change in the spacing, estimating the retained load on the gasket.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.